New Zealand retain Oceania Championship title with 2-0 victory over New Caledonia

New Zealand have retained their Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Under-16 Men’s Championship title, defeating New Caledonia 2-0 in a close final match at the National Stadium in Honiara on Saturday.

Martin Bullock’s side had to work hard against New Caledonia, the only team to score against them during the group stage.

The Kiwis' strong defence played a key role in the victory, with goalkeeper Joseph Chalabi showcasing exceptional skills by not allowing any goals throughout the tournament.

The first major opportunity of the match came in the 18th minute when John Woldegiorgis' shot was deflected. Ethan Dyer also had a chance inside the box but missed.

New Caledonia nearly capitalised on a risky back pass, but Chalabi made a great save to keep the score level.

Just moments later, New Caledonia's Daryl Hmaloko hit the post with a shot that could have put his team ahead.

Despite having good control of the ball, New Zealand struggled to find the back of the net until four minutes before half-time. A well-placed cross from Nunez found James Wenceslao, who selflessly passed to Jack Clegg, allowing him to score the opening goal.

In the second half, New Caledonia pushed hard for an equaliser. Hmaloko came close again but couldn't score.

Clegg almost added a second goal for New Zealand when his shot hit the crossbar.

Fiji’s Ryan Achari, in white left, and Papua New Guinea’s Henry Bill, tussle for the ball during their third-place match at the OFC U16 Men’s Championship 2025 in Honiara on Saturday. Photo/DJ Mills/Phototek

As New Caledonia desperately looked for an equaliser, Hinoija Wetewea's free kick went just wide of the target. But New Zealand’s defence held firm against New Caledonia's late efforts, securing their victory.

To seal the win, Ben Perez-Baldoni scored with almost the last kick of the game.

Both teams will advance to the FIFA Under-17 Men’s World Cup 2026 in Qatar, along with Fiji, which won their third-place playoff against Papua New Guinea, 1-0.